High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas

If you’re looking for a delicious dinner that brings warmth and comfort to your table, let me introduce you to my High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas. This dish has been a beloved favorite in my household for years! Not only is it packed with lean protein, but it also combines cheesy goodness with just the right amount of spice. Perfect for cozy weeknights or family gatherings, these enchiladas will quickly become a go-to meal that everyone loves—and they make amazing leftovers too!

The beauty of these enchiladas lies in their simplicity. You can whip them up in under an hour, making them ideal for those busy evenings when you want something satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Trust me; once you try them, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these enchiladas ready to bake in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to adults will enjoy the cheesy flavor and mild spice.
• High Protein: Packed with lean chicken and creamy goodness, these enchiladas fit perfectly into your fitness goals.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them ahead of time and simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
• Delicious Leftovers: These enchiladas taste even better the next day—if you have any left!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For these High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas, we’re using simple and wholesome ingredients. You might already have some of them in your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Filling:

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 oz reduced-fat cream cheese
• 1 tbsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles

For Assembly:

• 6 large whole wheat tortillas
• 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend

For Topping:

• 1/3 cup light sour cream (for topping)
• Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
• Nonstick cooking spray

Variations

The great thing about these enchiladas is their flexibility! You can easily customize them based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even cooked quinoa for a vegetarian option!
• Change up the cheese: Try different cheese blends like pepper jack for added heat or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Add some veggies: Throw in some sautéed bell peppers or spinach into the filling for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add some jalapeños or switch to a spicier chili powder.

How to Make High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your enchiladas bake evenly and come out bubbly and golden. While the oven heats up, lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken breasts for 6–7 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Letting them cool slightly afterward makes shredding easier—use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This juicy chicken is going to be the star of your enchiladas!

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, minced garlic, cream cheese, chili powder, and diced green chiles until creamy. This filling is where all those delicious flavors come together! The cream cheese adds richness while balancing out the spice.

Step 4: Assemble Your Enchiladas

Take each tortilla and fill it with a generous scoop of the chicken mixture. Roll them up tightly and place them seam-side down in your greased baking dish. This step keeps everything snug inside while baking!

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

In a small saucepan over low heat, simmer chicken broth and any extra chili powder you desire. Pour this savory sauce over your assembled enchiladas. It infuses moisture and flavor as they bake!

Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake

Top your enchiladas with shredded Mexican cheese blend before covering with foil. Baking covered helps keep everything moist and melts that cheesy topping nicely! Bake for about 20–25 minutes, removing foil during the last 5 minutes for crispy edges.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Once baked to perfection, finish off with a dollop of light sour cream and sprinkle chopped cilantro on top before serving. These High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas are ready to be enjoyed—dig in!

Pro Tips for Making High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas

Creating the perfect enchiladas can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients like garlic and cilantro not only enhance the flavors but also add nutritional value to your dish.

• Customize your heat level: Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your spice preference. This allows you to cater to different tastes, making the dish enjoyable for everyone.

• Experiment with tortillas: While whole wheat tortillas are healthy, trying corn tortillas or even low-carb versions can give a different texture and flavor to your enchiladas.

• Let them rest: Allowing the assembled enchiladas to sit for 10 minutes before baking helps meld the flavors together and makes them easier to handle.

• Double the recipe: These enchiladas are perfect for meal prep! Make an extra batch to freeze for busy weeknights when cooking feels like a chore.

How to Serve High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas

Serving your enchiladas beautifully can turn a simple dinner into a special occasion. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle these on top for a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the creaminess of the enchiladas.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who love an extra kick, fresh jalapeños add both heat and color.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado pairs wonderfully with spicy dishes, adding richness that balances out the flavors.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing mix of corn, lime, cilantro, and spices that adds sweetness and crunch alongside your enchiladas.

• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and fiber, making them an excellent accompaniment that enhances the overall heartiness of the meal.

• Cilantro Lime Rice: The zesty flavor of lime mixed with fragrant cilantro complements the enchiladas perfectly while adding a satisfying carb option.

• Simple Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy enchiladas, making it a balanced meal.

With these garnishes and side dishes, your High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas will not only taste amazing but also look delightful on your dining table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas are fantastic for meal prep, making them a perfect choice for your busy weeknights or weekend lunches. You can easily whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the enchiladas to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped enchiladas in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For refrigerated enchiladas, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
• For frozen enchiladas, thaw overnight in the fridge and follow the same reheating instructions.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I use other proteins in High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas?

Absolutely! While chicken is the star of this recipe, feel free to substitute it with turkey or even a plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas for a tasty twist.

What can I serve with High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas?

These enchiladas pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad, guacamole, or even some Mexican-style rice. The options are endless!

Can I make High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas vegetarian?

Yes! You can easily make these enchiladas vegetarian by replacing the chicken with beans, vegetables, or tofu. Just ensure any substitutes fit your dietary preferences!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas as much as I do! They offer a delightful combination of flavors and nutrients that make them special. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or savoring leftovers throughout the week, they’re bound to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!